Back in August I had the pleasure of photographing Ellie and Matt's awesome wedding in London. Now. If you are looking for ideas for a homemade outdoor wedding reception with garden games for your guests, this wedding will be a real inspiration to you....
The day began for me when I met Matt and his ushers in the lovely sunshine at St John's Church in Hampton Wick. The bridesmaids arrived a short time later in a VW Camper, beautiful in their flowing Grecian style dresses and flower crowns. Ellie and her Dad arrived together, and she looked simply stunning! After a lovely service, and an EPIC confetti line, we walked down to the river where the newlyweds and their close family got on a boat to travel down the river to the reception venue - what a way to travel on your wedding day!! I had just the right amount of time to get back to my car, drive to the venue, and get down to the river bank to capture their arrival : ) The river bank, with views of Hampton Court Palace in the background, was perfect for some group pics, then it was off to Ditton Field, owned by Kingston Grammar School, for the reception.
As far as homemade weddings go, this really was something special.... There was a bar and Photobooth - both made by made by Matt's Dad ... there was elderflower gin - made by Ellie's Mum.... there were hand labelled gin bottles, bunting and a gorgeous table plan - made by Ellie's sister.... there flower vases full of Ellie's Mum's homegrown flowers - put together by Ellie's aunty and mum's friend ... there was a cycling theme cake - made by Ellie's Mum's colleague Gazala... and just check out these incredible garden games - all made by Ellie and her Dad!
With a sweet bar, photos hanging around the edge of the marquee, gorgeous place settings, and a tandem bike (which was meant more for decoration but did get quite a bit of use during the reception!) it really was a dream wedding for me to photograph! The sprinklers on the field did also provide a little entertainment!
Music was provided by Silent Alarm who were awesome - definitely check them out if you are looking for a band for your wedding or party. Being a summer wedding, it was light when the dancing started, but once the music started, the dancing didn't stop... and always love it how the lighting and colours change as the evening goes on - Ellie and Matt definitely ended their day with a serious party!
I really did have the best day and I am so happy to have been able to capture this BRILLIANT wedding.
: )
Credits: Ellie's Wedding Dress - Surrey Brides in Weybridge; Bridesmaid Dresses - TFNC; Flowers - Gaye Burrows; Suits - Youngs Hire Wear ; Marquee - Gregg Barlett from the Wedding Marquee Company ; Catering - Justin Field ; Band - Silent Alarm.
